HC Deb 15 June 1950 vol 476 cc522-3
7. Miss Irene Ward

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will institute an inquiry into the bad quality of materials used in many cases for making clothing of all kinds, household furnishings and stockings.

The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Harold Wilson)

No, Sir. I cannot accept the suggestion that the use of poor materials in these articles is widespread.

Miss Ward

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his answer will cause great annoyance to housewives, who are suffering from bad materials, deteriorating quality and ever-increasing prices? Will he not reconsider his decision?

Mr. Wilson

If the hon. Lady wants me to introduce a lot more controls than we have ever had before on the manufacture of these things by private industry, I am always prepared to consider such a step.

Mr. Albu

Will my right hon. Friend take every step possible to counteract propaganda against the high quality and great advantages of utility goods?

Mr. Wilson

The Question did not refer to utility goods, but, of course, if there are any cases in the utility field into which the hon. Lady or any other hon. Member would like me to inquire I should be prepared to inquire into them.

Miss Ward

On a point of order. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.